At Citizens Bank and WMUR-TV, we recognize the value of all the communities we serve in New Hampshire -- and we're dedicated to helping them thrive. We also recognize that our communities face tremendous social challenges today -- from affordable housing and homelessness to workforce development and youth support.

To address these growing needs, we teamed up to create the Champions In Action program -- a unique initiative designed to provide financial support and public awareness to the non-profit organizations that work so hard to champion change in our communities and make life better for us all.

Each Champion in Action receives:
-A $35,000 contribution in unrestricted funds from the Citizens Bank Foundation.
-Coverage from WMUR, including public service announcements and television profiles.
-Volunteer support from Citizens Bank and WMUR.
-Opportunity to tap into the expertise of our local bank president through the President-to-President program.
-Public relations support.
-Promotional support, including advertising in Citizens Bank branches and on Citizens Bank ATMs, as well as citizensbank.com and www.wmur.com.
The 2013 Champions in Action program will focus on the following social concerns:

Timeframe

Social Concern

Application Deadline

Honorees Announced

January - June 2013

Strengthening Communities

Oct. 5, 2012

January 2013

July - December 2013

Arts & Culture

March 2013

July 2013

The Strengthening Communities social concern deals with initiatives that contribute to the economic vitality of communities including job training and financial education.What we look for in a champion

In selecting Champions In Action, we look for:

-A demonstrated history of strong fiscal responsibility and leadership.
-An ability to show how the organization will make effective use of the support and resources being awarded.
-Proven success in addressing the particular social concern.

Eligibility

To be recognized as a Champion In Action, an organization must:

- Be a New Hampshire-based, nonprofit organization that services New Hampshire and addresses the designated social concern (see chart above).
- Provide verification of tax-exempt status under section 501 (c) 3 of the Internal Revenue Code.
- Have a total operating budget of $5 million or less.

Submit your application so it is received by 5 p.m. on the designated deadline (see chart above).

How to apply

To apply, simply complete the online application at the link below. Your application must be received by 5 p.m. on the designated deadline (see chart). A selection committee composed of community leaders and representatives of Citizens and WMUR will review each application.

Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application in writing. Organizations that have been honored previously as Champions may re-apply after five years have elapsed.